Owner survey of tarsocrural effusion (bog spavin) in Clydesdale horses

Abstract

A postal survey of the owners of Clydesdale horses in the UK and USA was conducted to obtain information on tarsocrural effusion ('bog spavin') as an indicator of osteochondrosis from 935 horses. Additional information requested included details of how this condition was investigated and treated. The reported tarsocrural effusion incidence was 10 per cent. The majority of respondents believed the condition to be of concern to Clydesdale owners, but only a minority were aware of the implications of tarsocrural effusion, suggesting that owner education would be of benefit.

Bog spavin: recognising the problem is the first step towards recovery

“…In conclusion, the study by Weaver and Wilant (2012) highlights that bog spavin commonly occurs in Clydesdales and that, generally, owners are aware of the condition and rate it as important. This paves the way for further investigation into the occurrence of the disease in the population, coupled with an investigation of the associative genotype.…”

“…In a paper summarised on http://veterinaryrecord.bmj.com/content/170/10/286.full of this week's Veterinary Record , Weaver and Wilant (2012) explore Clydesdale owners' views on bog spavin. The results of their survey indicate that Clydesdale owners have an interest in reducing the incidence of tarsocrural effusion in the breed, with 87 per cent agreeing that the condition should be of concern to owners and breeders.…”